Biography of Fiza Farhan: CEO at Buksh Foundation - Pakistani Entrepreneur
Biography of Fiza Farhan:
Fiza Farhan, a prominent figure in Pakistan, has dedicated
herself to driving social change through entrepreneurship and activism. Fiza
Farhan co-founded the Buksh Foundation, aiming to empower communities through
microfinance initiatives and energy projects. These initiatives have had a
significant impact, providing financial inclusion and sustainable energy
solutions to underserved areas in Pakistan.
Fiza Farhan embarked on her professional journey in 2008,
assuming the role of CEO at Buksh Foundation, where she quickly made a name for
herself as one of the youngest leaders in the sector. Her focus was on
pioneering initiatives such as Pakistan's inaugural Energy Service Company
(ESCO) and establishing green financing frameworks for both private and public
sectors. Her efforts were pivotal in shaping policies for renewable energy in
Pakistan, demonstrating her commitment to sustainable development.
Defying Expectations: Fiza Farhan's Journey Begins
Fiza Farhan, raised in a traditional Pakistani family with a
naval officer father, challenged societal norms from the outset. Instead of
conforming to expectations of marriage and domesticity, she boldly pursued
higher education abroad—a path not often taken by women in Pakistan. Despite
initial uncertainty, her determination to forge her own destiny set her on a
course of self-discovery and empowerment.
Awakening at Warwick Business School
Farhan's transformative journey gained momentum during her
time at Warwick Business School (WBS), where she immersed herself in the world
of social enterprise and entrepreneurship. WBS provided her with the tools and
inspiration to envision a future where business could drive social change and
empower marginalized communities. This pivotal experience ignited her passion
for engineering social justice and equipped her with the confidence to
challenge conventions and embrace leadership.
Pioneering ORA Global Advisors
In addition to her work with the Buksh Foundation, Fiza
Farhan founded ORA Global Advisors, expanding her influence globally. ORA
Global Advisors focuses on strategic consulting, further amplifying her efforts
in promoting economic empowerment, particularly for women.
Empowering Communities Through Innovation
Post-graduation, Farhan co-founded Buksh Energy Private
Limited and Buksh Foundation, pioneering social enterprises focused on
sustainable development in Pakistan. Notably, her 'Lighting a Million Lives'
project revolutionized rural energy access by replacing hazardous kerosene
lamps with eco-friendly solar alternatives. This initiative not only improved
living conditions but also empowered rural women to become entrepreneurs,
catalyzing positive social impact across multiple fronts.
Early Career and Leadership at Buksh Foundation
Fiza Farhan embarked on her career journey in 2008, quickly
rising to prominence as the CEO of Buksh Foundation, a pioneering social
enterprise. Her leadership at Buksh Foundation marked her as one of the
youngest CEOs in her sector. During her tenure, she spearheaded initiatives
focusing on social impact and sustainable development.
Innovative Ventures in Energy and Policy Development
Farhan expanded her influence by serving as a director at
Buksh Energy Limited, where she introduced Pakistan’s inaugural ESCO (Energy
Service Company). Her efforts also included pioneering green financing consortiums
aimed at both private and public sectors. She collaborated closely with the
Government of Pakistan to shape policies pertaining to renewable energy,
demonstrating her commitment to sustainable practices.
Recognition and Global Leadership
Farhan's impactful contributions earned her accolades
internationally. She was recognized as the fourth Pakistani to be listed on
Forbes' 30 Under 30 roster of Social Entrepreneurs. Additionally, she made
history as the first Pakistani appointed as a future energy leader by the World
Energy Council, highlighting her influential role in global energy initiatives.
Global Advocacy and Strategic Advisory Role
In 2016, Farhan was appointed by the UN Secretary-General to
serve on the inaugural high-level panel on women's economic empowerment,
underscoring her advocacy for gender equality on a global scale. Concurrently,
she assumed the role of chairperson for the Chief Minister Punjab’s task force
on women empowerment, furthering her commitment to fostering inclusive policies.
Authorship and Thought Leadership
Farhan's impactful journey and insights into activism and
success are encapsulated in her memoir, "52 Pearls of Life,"
published in 2016. The book offers profound reflections on her experiences and
achievements, serving as a testament to her dedication to social change and
empowerment.
Biography of Fiza Farhan: CEO at Buksh Foundation - Pakistani Entrepreneur/Pakistani social entrepreneur and activist/founder of ORA Global Advisors
Continued Impact and Future Endeavors
Currently, Farhan operates as an independent global
strategic development advisor, focusing on diverse areas such as women's
empowerment, climate change mitigation, energy access, sustainable growth,
youth development, and fostering cross-sector collaborations. Her multifaceted
approach continues to shape global conversations and initiatives aimed at
creating a more equitable and sustainable world.
Impactful Microfinance and Energy Projects
Through her leadership, Fiza Farhan has championed various
microfinance and energy projects that have transformed communities across
Pakistan. These initiatives not only alleviate poverty but also empower
individuals and promote sustainable development.
Global Recognition and Advocacy
Fiza Farhan's commitment to women's economic empowerment led
to her appointment as a member of the UN Secretary-General's panel on Women's
Economic Empowerment. This role underscores her advocacy on an international
stage, advocating for policies and initiatives that foster gender equality and
economic inclusion.
A Catalyst for Change
Fiza Farhan's journey as a social entrepreneur and activist
exemplifies dedication and innovation in tackling societal challenges. Her
contributions to microfinance, energy access, and women's empowerment resonate
locally and globally, making her a beacon of hope and progress in Pakistan and
beyond.
Recognition and Global Impact
Farhan's efforts did not go unnoticed, as she earned a place
on Forbes Asia's prestigious "30 Under 30 List of Social
Entrepreneurs" in 2016. This recognition underscored her role as a
transformative leader in the field of social entrepreneurship. She further
solidified her global influence with membership in the Clinton Global
Initiative in 2015, a platform that enables leaders to devise innovative
solutions to global challenges.
Advocacy for Women's Empowerment
In 2016, Farhan's advocacy for women's economic empowerment
reached new heights when she was appointed to the UN Secretary-General's
inaugural high-level panel on the subject. This appointment highlighted her
dedication to advancing gender equality and creating opportunities for women
globally. Her leadership extended to chairing the Chief Minister Punjab's task
force on women empowerment, further cementing her commitment to fostering
inclusive growth and empowerment initiatives.
Literary Pursuits and Personal Life
Beyond her professional achievements, Farhan found time to
reflect on her journey in her memoir titled "52 Pearls of Life,"
published in 2016. This memoir offers insights into her personal and
professional experiences, serving as inspiration for aspiring changemakers.
Balancing her career with family life, Farhan is married and raises one child,
demonstrating her ability to navigate the demands of leadership while
maintaining personal fulfillment.
Accolades and Recognition
Throughout her career, Farhan has been honored with numerous
accolades for her impactful contributions. These include the TIAW World of
Difference Awards and the Poverty Alleviation Award at the Asian Corporate
Social Responsibility
Her dedication to poverty alleviation and sustainable development
has also been recognized through awards such as the Education UK Alumni Awards
for Social Impact in 2016. Farhan's influence extends beyond accolades, as she
was featured prominently in national campaigns like "Chamke Hum se
Pakistan," celebrating her as a shining star of Pakistan's social impact
landscape. Her story continues to inspire and empower, illustrating the
transformative power of dedication, innovation, and a commitment to creating
positive change in the world.
From Challenges to Solutions: A Visionary Approach
Farhan's approach to social entrepreneurship revolves around
tackling Pakistan's most pressing challenges head-on. She champions a mantra of
converting problems into sustainable solutions through multi-sectorial
partnerships. Her unwavering commitment to identifying and implementing
innovative solutions has reshaped development paradigms in Pakistan,
demonstrating that with determination and collaboration, no challenge is
insurmountable.
A timeline outlining the key events and achievements in Fiza
Farhan's journey:
Early Years and Education:
1980s-2000s: Raised in a traditional Pakistani family with a
naval officer father. Challenges societal norms by pursuing higher education
abroad instead of conforming to traditional roles.
Career Beginnings and Education Abroad:
2008: Begins professional journey, eventually becoming CEO
of Buksh Foundation.
Education: Attends Warwick Business School, gaining tools
for social enterprise and entrepreneurship.
Founding of Buksh Foundation and ORA Global Advisors:
Post-Graduation: Co-founds Buksh Energy Private Limited and
Buksh Foundation.
Founding of ORA Global Advisors: Establishes strategic
consulting firm.
Leadership at Buksh Foundation and Innovation in Energy:
2008-2010s: Leads Buksh Foundation, pioneering microfinance
and energy projects.
Innovations: Introduces Pakistan's first Energy Service
Company (ESCO), green financing frameworks.
Global Recognition and Advocacy:
2015: Joins Clinton Global Initiative.
2016: Listed on Forbes' 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneurs.
Appointed to UN Secretary-General's high-level panel on women's economic
empowerment.
Literary Pursuits and Personal Life:
2016: Publishes memoir "52 Pearls of Life."
Personal: Balances career with marriage and motherhood.
Continued Impact and Current Endeavors:
Present: Serves as global strategic development advisor,
focusing on women's empowerment, climate change, energy access, and sustainable
growth.
This timeline highlights Fiza Farhan's evolution from
challenging norms in Pakistan to becoming a globally recognized leader in
social entrepreneurship and advocacy.
